What symptom indicates the possibility of a leak in a manual roof panel?

The presence of dust intrusion is a strong indicator that there may be a leak in a manual roof panel. When a roof panel is properly sealed, it should prevent not only water from entering the vehicle but also dust and other particulates. If dust is noticeable inside the vehicle, it suggests that there are gaps or weaknesses in the sealing of the manual roof panel that allow outside air (and dust) to enter. This can be a sign of wear or damage that could eventually lead to water leaks, particularly during rain or wet conditions.

In contrast, other symptoms, although they may suggest issues with the roof panel, do not directly point to the presence of a leak. Difficulty in opening the panel could be due to mechanical failure or obstruction rather than a leak. Noise when driving may indicate a range of issues, such as wind noise from an improperly fitted panel, but does not specifically signify a leak. Visible rust may indicate long-term exposure to moisture, but without prior indications of a leak or intrusion, rust alone does not directly point to a current leak condition.